Sakteng Wildlife Santuary (SWS) is located in the far-northern Trashigang on the east edge of Bhutan. It covers Merak and Sakteng geogs and a small area of Lauri geog in the Samdrup Jongkhar Dzongkhag. Esatablished in 2003, Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary is spread over an area of 650 sq. Km of Himalayan terrestrial eco-system-alpine meadows, temperate forest and warm broadleaf forest. It is connected by biological corridors with Khaling Strict Reserve in the South. Although a small protected area in size, it is home to hundreds of plant and animal species including several endemic species. Some of these species have global conservation significance. 21 forest communities have been identified in the 10 major forest types. Preliminary surveys recorded some 203 species of vascular plants, 119 species of birds and 18 species of mammals. Merak-Sakteng is one of the most potential tourist destinations of Bhutan for holding spectacular landscape engraved by rich and unique culture and tradition of Brokpas (Nomads). Its remoteness from urban areas, pilgrim sites and an area with rich wildlife habitat are the plus points for eco tourism for Merak-Sakteng. The Merak-Sakteng has the highest number of rhododendron species recorded in the country and many other species flowering plants. The location of Merak and Sakteng is a rare combination of glaciated river valleys and alpine pastures coupled with easy access to the summer as well as autumn and winter pastures provide a great variety of tourism potential in Bhutan. While tourism can generate income for community development, it provides a platform for the area to portray conservation efforts and educate people on environment and biodiversity values. For the tourists, they will be able to witness environment and cultural richness, unique landscapes and a different world. For communities of remotest areas like Merak and Sakteng, preparation for tourism is not an easy task. They require government support to initiate basic facilities and modalities and train them. This project is therefore an effort to explore potential tourism products for these communities and support the capacity development of local communities while at the same time retaining the conservation efforts in the areas.

Autumn and Spring are the best time to visit Sakten. Contact us for the detailed itinerary.